CAPABLE Synonyms: 54 Similar and Opposite Words

capable

adjective

ˈkā-pə-bəl

Definition of capable

as in suitable

having the required skills for an acceptable level of performance a capable and efficient editor

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of capable Still, this would likely be a limited slice of overall economic activity in a world where AI is more capable than humans. — Geoffrey Irving, Time, 3 Oct. 2026 Ladish helped build Anthropic's security team from September 2021 to October 2022 before leaving to found Palisade Research, which studies whether humans can remain in control of increasingly capable AI systems. — James Cirrone, FOXNews.com, 3 Oct. 2026 Two quarterbacks that are capable of going into the game and playing well. — Joe Arruda, Hartford Courant, 3 Oct. 2026 Given the destruction in Gaza and the ongoing security crises in the West Bank, Palestinians clearly strongly desire a leader capable of bringing order and stability. — Michael Robbins, Foreign Affairs, 2 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for capable

Recent Examples of Synonyms for capable

Adjective

With efficacy and affordability top of mind, Skin Union’s product boast ph-balancing, and filler-free formulas suitable for all skin types, and all under $30.

— Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 1 Oct. 2026
In the other case, officials couldn’t find a suitable vein for an IV line, so the drugs weren’t administered.

— Kim Chandler, Los Angeles Times, 1 Oct. 2026

Definition of suitable

Adjective

Ivanna Lisette Ortiz, 36, of Florida was deemed mentally competent by Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Maria Cavalluzzi, meaning the criminal case can proceed after a competency evaluation delayed it for more than four months.

— Iris Kwok, Los Angeles Times, 30 Sep. 2026
In a room full of fascists and fools, Ahmed’s projection of competence—and of the spluttering exasperation that is the lot of the competent—proves a genuine balm.

— Justin Chang, New Yorker, 30 Sep. 2026

Definition of competent

Adjective

Startups that were founded within the past five years or funded within the past two years are able to apply, according to Anthropic.

— Justina Lee, CNBC, 7 Oct. 2026
Regulatory concerns began to rise, with growing uncertainty that Netflix would be able to close its deal in short order.

— Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 6 Oct. 2026

Definition of able

Browse Nearby Words

capability

capable

capableness

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“Capable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/capable. Accessed 8 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of capable

adjective

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